Dan Carter still winning trophies, chosen as MVP in Japan Top League

Kobe Steelers flyhalf Dan Carter takes on the Suntory Sungoliath defence in the Japan Top League final. Photo: www.rugby-japan.jp

TOKYO – Former All Blacks flyhalf Dan Carter believes playing in Japan has helped him rediscover the attacking mindset of a decade ago as he led Kobelco Steelers to their first Top League title since 2004, and was then named the competition’s most valuable player.

Carter, who is widely considered the greatest flyhalf to play the game, joined Kobelco earlier this year following three seasons in France with Racing 92, after guiding the All Blacks to their third Rugby World Cup title in 2015.

The 36-year-old helped Kobelco to a 55-5 victory over twice-defending champions Suntory Sungoliath in the final at the weekend, and was then given the MVP accolade.

“It’s a really proud moment for someone that has had such a long career and is getting to the end of that career,” the three-time World Player of the Year told Kyodo News.

“But that’s not why I play the game... It’s not about individual awards like this.

“At the same time, it’s nice to know the hard work and sacrifice that I have put in this year has been recognised.”

Carter had said when his move to Japan was announced, even though he had been offered a new contract with Racing, that he wanted to be closer to New Zealand.

Another attraction was that the seasons were also shorter than those in Europe, and he felt that had helped him play at a level he felt he had been unable to get to for a decade.

“I’ve really got my running game back to where it was probably 10 years ago,” said Carter, who is the leading points scorer in international rugby with 1 598 in 112 Tests.